Treating Gum Disease - The Periodontal Group

Scaling and Root Therapy

Deep cleaning, otherwise known as scaling and root planing, is necessary for patients suffering from gingivitis, periodontitis, or advanced periodontitis. Patients experiencing the development of pockets between gums and teeth need scaling and root therapy services in order to treat advanced cases of gum disease, and to prevent further damage the patient’s health.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease, can be treated if a dentist is able to diagnose the severity of a patient’s case early. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the chances are for combating gum disease before the damage to a patient becomes irreversible.

Gum disease occurs when patients fail to keep up with good dental hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and using antiseptic mouthwash. In the most severe cases of advanced periodontal disease, patients eventually experience tooth loss. 

Gum disease can also be a side effect of smoking, diabetes, and some medications that cause dryness in the mouth. Genetic disposition and hormone changes in women may also affect whether an individuals is more susceptible to periodontal disease.

Deep Cleaning

To heal the gums from periodontal disease, the first step is cleaning the affected area. Deep cleaning removes inflammation causing tartar buildup around the gum to the body to naturally heal itself. Scaling removes the tartar and plaque from teeth. Root planing removes plaque from the deep pockets developed around the gums near the roots of the teeth. 

Patients have the option to choose from several methods to periodontal therapy. Dentists could use traditional scaling tools such as hand scalers to perform the scaling and root planing procedure. Another option would be using ultrasonic scalers, typically faster and less irritating to patients. 
After the deep cleaning procedure, antiseptic may be applied at the patient’s discretion in order to sooth irritation. Deep cleaning is most effective in patients committed to good dental hygiene, which prevents the reoccurrence of tartar in the open pockets. It's an attempt to prevent further gum disease progression and avoid more advanced surgical methods.

There are also available options for preventative deep cleaning for patients more susceptible to periodontal disease. The treatment involves cleaning plaque and tartar from the teeth and around the gums where pockets are susceptible to occur. The preventative process scales and polishes teeth in order to prevent future gum disease. 

Learn More - Visit The Periodontal Group Today

To find out more about treating periodontal disease, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gene Ranieri or Dr. Basel Hajjar, and develop a scaling and root therapy plan that best fits you.